The worst economic downturn in three generations slammed into the Treasure Valley a year ago as the stock market plunged, banks collapsed and 401(k)s dried up. Micron Technology laid off thousands, and businesses were shuttered.

Unemployment rose to 10.2 percent in the Treasure Valley in July, up from 3.6 percent 19 months earlier.

Behind the grim numbers were real people caught in the economic turbulence. Boisean Allison Ashburn was laid off twice in eight months. Andy Rumble's family of five lost a breadwinner when he lost his job at Micron after 19 years.

Others lost their homes.

But despite bad times, many people still hold on to some optimism. Things aren't as bad as they were - or could have been. And many believe things will get better.